Interview| Rahul Sadasivan on ‘Diés Iraé’: Tapping into the Depths of Fear

Opening

In a genre that constantly seeks to innovate, director Rahul Sadasivan stands out with his latest horror masterpiece, ‘Diés Iraé’, featuring Pranav Mohanlal in a riveting lead role. Sadasivan, known for his ability to blend traditional horror elements with deep psychological insights, discusses his creative process, the challenges of filmmaking, and the unique thrill that comes from scaring an audience. This conversation unfolds in the backdrop of the film’s recent premiere, shedding light on the director’s artistic journey and his vision for ‘Diés Iraé’.

On ‘Diés Iraé’ and Exploring Fear

Q: What inspired you to create ‘Diés Iraé’, and why did you choose horror as your medium?

The inspiration came from my fascination with the human psyche and how fear operates within it. Horror, for me, is not just about jump scares or ghostly figures; it’s about tapping into those deep-seated fears that reside in all of us. ‘Diés Iraé’ offered the perfect canvas to explore this theme, especially with Pranav Mohanlal bringing such intensity to the lead role.

Q: Can you talk about your approach to building suspense and fear in ‘Diés Iraé’?

Creating suspense is like weaving a delicate web; it requires patience and precision. I focus on the subtleties - the eerie silence before a storm or the slight flicker of a shadow. It’s these nuances that build the anticipation and ultimately deliver the fear in a way that’s both unexpected and deeply unsettling.

Creative Process and Influences

Q: How do you approach the filmmaking process, especially for a genre as demanding as horror?

For me, it starts with the story. I spend a lot of time refining the script, ensuring that the narrative is solid and the characters are well-developed. From there, it’s about creating an atmosphere that serves the story. This means meticulous planning in terms of lighting, sound design, and camera angles to create that immersive horror experience.

Q: Who are your major influences in the film industry, particularly in the horror genre?

I’ve always admired the works of Alfred Hitchcock and Stanley Kubrick. Their ability to manipulate the audience’s emotions and expectations is unparalleled. In the horror genre, I’m influenced by the psychological depth of Ari Aster’s films. They challenge the conventional boundaries of horror and delve into the human condition in profound ways.

Collaboration and Future Projects

Q: Working with Pranav Mohanlal must have been an exciting experience. Can you share some insights into this collaboration?

Working with Pranav was indeed a highlight of this project. His dedication to the role and his ability to convey complex emotions added a layer of authenticity to the film. Our collaboration was a dialogue, constantly evolving and adapting, which brought out the best in both of us.

Q: Looking forward, are there any projects or genres you’re eager to explore?

I’m currently exploring the possibility of a thriller that delves into the realm of artificial intelligence. It’s a genre I haven’t tackled yet, but I’m excited about the potential it holds for storytelling, especially with the advancements in technology.

Closing

Rahul Sadasivan’s ‘Diés Iraé’ marks a significant milestone in his career, showcasing his prowess in storytelling and his ability to invoke fear in the most unexpected ways. His insights into the creative process, collaboration with actors, and future aspirations offer a unique perspective into the mind of one of Asia’s emerging directors. As ‘Diés Iraé’ continues to captivate audiences, it’s clear that Sadasivan is a filmmaker to watch, pushing the boundaries of cinema and exploring the depths of human emotions through the lens of horror.